Stay hydrated, out of the sun

The temperatures are supposed to be in the 80s all week, and that can be dangerous for people out all day at the Masters Tournament.

News 12's Stephanie Baker spent the day Monday out on Washington Road and found that not everyone knows how to stay safe under the sun.

It was pretty hot out along Washington Road...so we can only imagine how it was inside the crowded course. News 12 caught up with some people today to find out just how prepared they are for the heat...and we have some ways to help you stay safe.

Doctors say prevention is key...so stopping injuries before they start is the best thing to do. They say the midday sun is the most intense, so they recommend an SPF of at least 30 and a broad-spectrum sunscreen that will scramble the sun's harmful rays. Also, wear light clothes and possibly a hat to cover your face.

Staying hydrated is important out here. Doctors recommend drinking lots of water, and carrying a water bottle. Some signs of dehydration to look out for are a fast heartbeat, decreased appetite, and difficulty concentrating.

Alcohol and caffeine aren't good...they can cause you to lose even more water. But not everyone is concerned about that.

"Water is for ducks to swim in," Buddy Brooks of Greenville said.

"What's your drink of choice?" we asked him.

"Bourbon."

"Once people get dehydrated they get behind the 8 ball...and those people will require excess fluid," says Dr. Janis Coffin of MCG.

Heat exhaustion is one of the injuries that can be caused by the heat. It can cause dizziness and weakness. Heat stroke is the most serious and can require a trip to the emergency room. Look out for a weak pulse, hot red skin, and shallow breathing. Humidity is also a problem since it keeps the body from properly getting rid of heat.

Doctors also say you should drink 64 ounces of water throughout the day. That's about eight glasses.

Just remember to keep a close check on your symptoms...and have fun out there!

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